We are now dependent on satellites in virtually all areas of life - far more than most people realize. Their sudden loss could crash the economy and potentially cause many to die. Les will describe the many ways our modern life depends upon satellites and the all-too-plausible scenarios that might cause us to lose them
Solar sail propulsion will make space exploration more affordable and offer access to destinations within (and beyond) the solar system that are currently beyond our reach. Les’ talk will describe solar sails, how they work and what they will be used for in the exploration of space. He will cover the current plans for solar sails and future space missions using them
More than 1000 exoplanets have been discovered, some of which may be similar to Earth. Many are now asking, “How do we get there?” Though the distances are vast, there are methods that may allow humanity to one day go to the stars - and they are within the known laws of physics. (No warp drive required!) Following a status on exoplanets research, Les will describe methods that may one day allow humanity to become an interstellar species.
If your memories of your last visit to a planetarium include the sounds of clackity-clacking 35mm slide projectors and a wobbly reel-to-reel audio track, you need to come back for the latest in A/V geekery.
This session will cover